The best places for the hottest summer dates in London

Nothing comes close to swooning in the summertime. With its wealth of al fresco party spots and romantic retreats, you'll be hard pressed not to impress the figure of your fancy at one of our top spots for summer dates in London.

Treat your date at the exclusive Radio Rooftop Bar:

Perched atop one of the most talked about boutique hotels in the city, Radio Rooftop Bar attracts an exclusive crowd of long legged lookers and stylish city slickers, keen to catch a glimpse of what lies beyond this palace of pleasure. What's on the menu? How about long and balmy evenings spent supping away on a spectacular cocktail offering, as you and your fanciful friend look upon panoramic views of the Oxo Tower, Big Ben, the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, The Gherkin and One Canada Square. Well, ain't that something special.

How about riverside drinks at The Union Tavern?

Sitting proudly on the banks of the Paddington Branch, The Union Tavern delivers one of West London's most popular canal-side hangouts. Appealing to those whose inclinations lean towards the craftier of tendencies, these guys excel in their beer and ale offering, serving up a hearty menu of unique blends and brews to keep thirst well at bay. This one really comes into its own during the summer months, when the carefree of West London can be found whiling away many an afternoon upon its plethora of picnic benches.

Unique, electric and downright enchanting, Simon Drake invites you and your date on a remarkable journey through the unusual. Dine on a sumptuous two course meal among the grandiose detailing and decorative intricacies of a 200-year-old Gothic mansion before a tour of the Haunted Cellar and a fortune telling extravaganza upon the Whispering Chair. Unashamedly eccentric and wholly distinctive, Simon Drake's House of Magic offers a marvellous opportunity to impress that special someone with an experience unlike all others.

Impress them with cool and quirky cocktails at Hackney's Smokey Tails pop-up:

Pop up spectacular Smokey Tails returns to Hackney this summer, showcasing DJ Seth Troxler's signature blend of sweet beats, masterfully crafted frozen cocktails and BBQ meat by the bucket-load. These guys promote good times by a rule of three: meats, beats and cocktails, a failsafe combination that is only supported by the tasty addition of riverside views, sun-splashed decking and al fresco dancing. Did someone say summer? It doesn't get much better than this, kids.

Flamingos at Kensington Roof Gardens:

The epitome of al fresco indulgence, this rooftop hangout is about as glamorous as they come. Taking pride of place amongst Sir Richard Branson's 'Unique Retreats' portfolio, the Roof Gardens in Kensington boast five themed gardens across one and a half acres of land; expect seventy full sized trees, flowing streams and four resident flamingos, named Bill, Ben, Splosh and Pecks. Monumental, majestic and ferociously flamboyant, it'll ensure your date isn't forgotten in a hurry.